The move comes after we revealed this morning that McInnes could have no option but to resign from his Pittodrie post if he wants to open signing talks with the Ibrox club - following Aberdeen's decision to boot out an official approach on Tuesday night.

Derek McInnes is Rangers' number one target (Image: SNS)

Read More

It's understood McInnes is now locked in dialogue with chairman Stewart Milne as the pair attempt to resolve this stand off.

But Milne appears unlikely to back down after being infuriated by a six week saga which culminated in last week's double header defeat for the Dons in back-to-back games against their bitter Glasgow rivals.

And, unless Milne is talked into an unlikely change of heart, McInnes will have to rip up his own contract in order to be free to open negotiations with Dave King's Rangers regime.

Stewart Milne and Derek McInnes are locked in talks

A source said: "That neither Derek nor Tony are taking training today is an indication of where things lie this morning. A decision has been made that it would make more sense for the manager and the chairman to discuss the situation over the course of the day.

"Derek is not at the club today but this dialogue remains ongoing. The pair of them have a very warm relationship but Stewart feels they have both been placed in a very difficult position and is determined to take a stand."

Record Sportunderstands Rangers will agree to pay more than £1m in compensation for McInnes and Docherty if Milne gives the move his blessing.

Read More

However, should the management team opt to resign in order to force the move through, then Aberdeen's lawyers would come after them for the money - with Rangers then obliged to pick up the tab ion full if McInnes is appointed as Pedro Caixinha's replacement.